DOWNTOWN AKRON, Ohio-Students majoring in biomedical engineering at The University of Akron collaborated with Dr. Hannah Agard Bachtel, a pediatric urologist at Akron Children’s Hospital, to create a home-use device for pediatric patients with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. The disorder affects one in seven school-aged children and involves the inability to completely empty the bladder due to tight pelvic floor muscles.
Existing therapies are office-based, lacking a home-use solution for practicing muscle relaxation techniques. The students developed a gamified biofeedback device that provides visual feedback on muscle engagement and relaxation, aiding patients in practicing at home. Under the guidance of their professor, Justin Baker, the students followed a multi-step design process, resulting in a lightweight, portable, and engaging prototype. The device, which attaches to a patient’s belt and connects to a game via Bluetooth, aims to improve patient experience and potentially reduce office visits.
UA students collaborate with Akron Children’s to develop device for pediatric patients
